This new research, then, will serve multiple functions: Using specialized sensors, processors, and algorithms, the project team will measure noise in real time, tracking both the noise generated by various pieces of wave energy equipment and general background noise.

FORBES: Wave Energy: The Latest Battleground in the Conservation vs. Innovation Debate

The data collected will be shared widely and, with any luck, inform the creation of noise standards in the wave energy industry.

FORBES: Wave Energy: The Latest Battleground in the Conservation vs. Innovation Debate

"We all started looking at it to figure out what was going on, and just as quickly there was another wave of noise after the AP denied the story, " Mr. Bliss said.

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According to IBM Distinguished Engineer Harry Kolar, noise is one of the many potential environmental impacts of both wave energy and tidal energy currently being studied.

FORBES: Wave Energy: The Latest Battleground in the Conservation vs. Innovation Debate

Early ideas suggested blunting the nose of the plane to prevent the pressure waves joining up to form one intense shock wave, or lengthening the plane without increasing its weight to dampen the noise.

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